Welcome!

The Early Childhood Center (ECC), located on the beautiful campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), provides full-day, year round early childhood care and education for the children of students, faculty, staff, and others in the University community, ages two through five.

The Early Childhood Center recognizes the potential of each child and the vital contributions parents make to the Center community. Our philosophy is strongly influenced by the Reggio Emilia Approach. Our work with children and families is grounded in our commitments to nurturing trusting relationships. We are devoted to growing a deeply connected community that allows intellectual and emotional risk-taking. We emphasize a joyful, playful climate with a culture of intellectual inquiry and critical thinking.

Our program is licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), has a 4 star rating from the Illinois Quality Rating System (QRS), and is accredited through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). We are also proud to be a certified Nature Explore Classroom.

Hours of Operation

Monday - Friday 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Please note that The Early Childhood Center is closed on all University recognized holidays.